700-pound alligator discovered by wildlife officials (Photo)

An 700-pound alligator picture that was shared more than 1,000 times on social media proves to be more than just a hoax.

“You’re perfectly safe. These animals exist. They’ve been here for centuries, they’ve been existing with people for centuries and they’re gonna continue to,” said Brent Howze, a wildlife biologist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The gator was picked up by about three people Monday on the West side of Lake Blackshear off Stathem Lakefront Road in Sumter County.

The DNR has an alligator management plan that does surveys and looks at alligator trends in Georgia. They put yellow tags on their tails to watch and keep track of the population. If you’re out hunting and you see an alligator with a yellow tag, you should call the DNR at (229) 430-4254.

Alligator hunting season is Aug. 17 through Oct. 8. A permit is required to legally hunt alligators.